The Sabres’ Blade | 17 February 1999

Herb Davis strives for success both on and off the court...

Take a trip into South's past...

Page4

February 17,1999

South Mecklenburg High School

Follow the yellow brick � road to South this month...

Pages 6-7

8900 Park Road

Page 8.

Charlotte, North Carolina,28210

Withrow crowned Reverse Hom.ecoming King

The 1999 Reverse Homecoming King Craig W ithrow poses with second runner-up Montee Rogers and third runner-up Jason Edwards. The other members of the Reverse Homecoming Court were first runner-up Quavis Morgan, Michael Ballenger, Anthony Carus o, Zach DeLeo, Jay Lawrence, Josh LeQuire, Justin Long, Jesse Rademacher, and Marcus Walton.

Cr aig Withrow was crowned the 1999 Reverse Homecoming King on January 29 at the varsity basketball game against the Providence Panthers.

The theme of the pep rally held earlier that afternoon was "The Prince of Egypt" and included a 1 yrical dance per formance by icole M e)' a arod of the MTV show "The c;ut," and a pe r forman ce- by South's n ew dance group, the Lett erg uys.

Ms. Melanie Duncan presided as mistress of ceremonies.

Lawsuit pro111pts school systent to re-exa111ine desegregation policies

By Andrew Buchert Editor

Despite thirty years of effort by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System to desegregate its schools, a recent lawsuit has prompted the system to exam­ ine and re-evaluate its desegre­ gation programs. A 23-member citizens' committee has been es­ tablished by school system Su­ perintendent Dr. Eric Smith to review plans that could replace current desegregation policies.

A federal court trial is scheduled to begin April 19 of this year.

Prior to 1970, Charlotte­ Mecklenburg was operating a dual school system, in which there was one school system for black students and one school system for white students. In

Swann vs. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education the Supreme

Court declared a dual school system unconstitutional. To remedy the situation, the Court ordered Charlotte-Mecklenburg to remove all discriminatory practices and become a unitary system.

For nearly thirty years the school system has used forced

busing to integrate its schools.

In 1992 it introduced magnet schools, which admit students based on racially-balanced goals, and midpoint schools be­ tween black and white neigh­ borhoods t o reduce the busing load. But the ques­ tion raised by the re­ cent law­ suit is whether or not Char­ lotte-Meek­ lenburg is now a uni­ tary sys­ tem.

B i 1 1 Capacchione sued the Charlotte­ Mecklen­ burg School System i n 1997 when his daughter, Cristina, was denied admission into a magnet school beca�se she's not black. The Grant interveners, a group of parents who have also filed suit against the school sys-

tern, object to the racial-balance policies of the school system as well. A third party of parents have filed suit on behalf of the original Swann family, attesting that the school system has not d o n e enough to achieve its desegrega­ tion goals.

A number of expert wit­ n e s s e s were hired the by school sys­ to tem evaluate certain ele­ ments of its current op­ eration.

They found the that standards necessary to be declared unitary have not been met. "The posi­ tion of the school board is that we are not yet unitary," said Dr. Smith. "There are still vestiges of the prior [dual] system that we have not dealt with effec-

tively," he said.

Smith said that, among other things, the quality of the teaching staff is not equal throughout the system. "The in­ equalities that we see are tied to the make-up of the student populations," he said. "Schools that are identifiably more Afri­ can-American than white tend to have teachers with, for ex­ ample, fewer years of experi­ ence and fewer advanced de­ grees." . "The Board [of Education] has every intention of becoming unitary," said Smith. "I think .the real question is whether or not we're there now, and if we're not, then how do we get there," he said.

One of t h e initiatives brought to the forefront by this situation is that of neighborhood schools. Advocates emphasize the value of a strong connection between school and family and feel that proximity is necessary to ensure that school and fam­ ily form a strong partnership.

However, there is also the

Continued Page 4 See DESEGREGATION

Volume XXVI

Senior Follies to -be presented at end of February

By Megan McKnight Centerspread Editor

The 1999 Senior Follies will be presented Friday and Satur­ day, February 26-27, in the au­ ditorium. Auditions were held in early February for both em­ cee positions and for individual skits. Tickets went on sale Feb­ ruary 11, and w ll continue tobe sold during all three B-day lunches for five dollars.

This year's theme is "Party Like It's 1999," a song released by "The Artist." The theme was deter mined through a vote taken by the senior class dur­ ing homeroom. "Party Like It's 1999" won by a landslide over three other songs.

Several seniors are creating prospective designs for the backdrop, and ultimately, the decision will be made by the Senior Class Council.

Act I consists of skits by the National Honor Society and Beta Club, "Lords of Magic," Senior Women, Sarah Snyder, the Letter Girls, Meredith Perry, and the Key Club. Act II is com­ prised of skits by "The Seniors," the Dancers, Sabres Out to Serve (SOS), Senior Men, Interkeys, Bonnie Rich, Executive Council and Senior Council, Kelly Flaviani, and Cerah.

Nathan Morabito, Kyle Robinson, Bethany Sterling, and Nicole Meade were selected as the Senior Follies emcees.

Aside from graduation, Se­ nior Follies is the most impor­ tant project with which seniors are involved. All proceeds go toward the payment of gradua­ tion costs and the senior class gift.

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Index Editorials..................... Page '2 Features......................Page 3 Features...................... Page 4 Technology..................Page 5 Centerspread ........ Pages 6-7 A & E . . ................ . . ...... Page 8 Faces in the Crowd.... Page 9 Sports................ Pages 1 0-11 Features....................Page 12

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The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

Diversity more important than convenience

Quick Take on Opinions

Diversity is one of the prime benefits of desegregation

Student rights versus school rights

would be a good opportunity for their children to develop a deeper appreciation for their heritage. It is important for chil­ Since 1970, when Charlotte­ dren of any race or color to be Mecklenburg Schools instituted a busing system designed to in­ knowledgeable and apprecia­ tegrate blacks and whites in tive of their cultural heritage. public schools, Charlotte has This should not, however, irt­ been nationally recognized as clude the cessation of associa­ one of the pioneer? of school tions with people of other back­ desegregation. Nevertheless, grounds, nor does it have to. In the busing issue has been very fact, to do so would be detri­ controversial and has been con­ mental to a child's future abil­ tested in court on several occa­ ity to relate socially to people of sions. The most recent suit different ethnicities. against the Charlotte-Mecklen­ Diversity does not simply burg Board of Education was mean simply racial diversity. It filed by several parents and is includes diversity of social sta­ scheduled to go to trial on April tus that would also be lacking if 19 of this year. busing was ended and segrega­ These parents and others tion, in effect, reinstated. This like them argue that consider­ sector of diversity is just as im­ ation of race in the assignment portant as racial acceptance. of schools is unconstitutional. Although different in their na­ Most, however, are concerned tures, racial segregation and class segregation both yield about the inconveniences they and their children are forced to prejudice. Integration can allay endure as a result of the assign­ this. ments. Supporters of busing, The schools have proven to though, do not support busing be one of the few places where in and of itself. They support children can get exposure to desegregation and busing just people ·of various backgrounds happens to be the means and heritages. This exposure through which this is being ac­ has helped students to see be­ complished at this time. Ulti­ yond color and social status and mately, inconvenient busing is a to see people that are, in many small price to pay for the long ways, more like them than not. term benefits of desegregation Integration does nvt simply on society as a whole. benefit IJljnorities. It is to the ad­ Diversity is one of the prime vanta � uf all [students] in­ benefits of desegregation. Many volved.

Children of all races also argue that segregation has learn tolerance that will be of ended and that there is no great value to them in later life. longer a need for a busing pro­ In twenty years, temporary in­ gram to help resolve a non-ex­ conveniences will not matter. istent problem.

Although The open-mindedness students schools are far more integrated learn as a result of integration than in the past, de facto segre­ can shape their mentalities for gation continues to affect many the rest of their lives. other avenues of life, for ex­ Integration or busing is ample, jobs and neighborhoods.. definitely not the cure-all for Many black parents feel"that racism and other prejudices. mandatory busing for the sake However, it is the first step to of desegregation should end be­ . instilling the values of tolerance cause, in their opinions, going and acceptance in future genera­ to a predominately black school tions.

By Natalie Smith Staff Reporter

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Editor-in-Chief Andrew Buchert Sports Co-Editors J. T. Crook Nathan Morabito

Photoeraphers Walter Boyle Chris O'Connor

Business Manaeer Nicole Ewing

Adviser Mrs. Jeny Beny

Centerspread Editor Megan McKnight

Staff Artist Laura King

Reporters Jessica Ambrose Jason Nark Jennifer Samuels

Natalie Smith Catherine.Traphagan Larisa Yasinovskaya

The Sabres' Blade staff will accept any and all letters, articles, editorials, etc., but cannot guarantee ublication. We reserve the right, however, to edit any materia for obscenity, misinfor­ mation, or other necesssary corrections. All opinions expressed in The Sabres' Blade are those of the individual writers and not the staff as a whole. If you have any questions, please feel free to come by B-10.

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LIW�A KING

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Take pride in your game Bad sportsmanship and greed tarnish the once glossy face of organized sports

By Laura King Staff Reporter

Organized sports are often contaminated by bad sports­ manship and greed. They are blemished by a bulk of partici­ pants who lack the character needed to respect their oppo­ nents and teammates, them­ selves, and the game.

Society has always glorified the great athletes; the guy who scores the winning goal in sua­ den-death overtime, or the quar­ terback who nails a game-win­ ning touchdown pass in the. homecoming game. Society teaches its people to look up to . professional athletes with multi­ million dollar contracts and endless endorsements. Five­ year-olds are mesmerized by the athletic stars whose images con­ stantly appear on the television screen. However, we tend to overlook the less obvious achievers, the ones who help their opponents up when they knock them down, or run over to the sidelines to tell their team­ mates "good job" when they are being taken out of the game.

Unfortunately, these select few are not rewarded with rich con­ tracts merely for their strong character, nor are they hailed by the public as great athletes.

These athletes swallow their pride for their accomplishments and are silent; only the super­ stars have "earned" the right to bask in glory.

Regardless of statistics or contract value, the real achiev­ ers are those athletes who play for the love of the game and play with character. One such per­ former is twenty-two-year-old Mike Petke of Major League Socce·r. He is obviously not us­ ing soccer as a get-rich-quick scheme; Mike plays for the league's bare minimum wage of $24,000 a year. W hile some sports stars own a garage full of sleek cars and houses scattered all over the globe, Mike drives a sputtering 1988 Nissan, and he sleeps on his grandmother 's couch because he cannot yet af­ ford an apartment due to the high cost of living in New York City. In sharp contrast, the NBA

was recently inactive because players already raking in fifteen million dollars a year were still not satisfied. This is not to say that the stereotype about all rich athletes lacking character is true; there are exceptions in any case.

It simply means that society re­ peatedly fails to realize and give credit to those athletes with a quiet existence.

Bad sportsmanship has a huge presence in organized sports. Too many players com­ pete with a visible hatred for their opponent; in fact, some coaches even go so far as to ac­ tually encourage their team to play dirty. Verbal and physical scufflings with opponents and referees are not the extent of bad sportsmanship. Sadly, many players cannot conduct them­ selves well enough to keep from fighting among each other when they are frustrated. Bad sports­ manship is a result of weak char­ acter and a lack of respect in general. Last fall, Fred Lane of the Carolina Panthers was sus­ pended for one game because of an unnecessary demonstration after he scored a touchdown, In addition, this past fall one of my own teammates was suspended for bad sportsmanship in a tour­ nament. In response to a ques­ tionable call, she hit an oppo­ nent in the mouth with her fist.

Negative displays of character like these interrupt the flow of the game and are unfortunate.

However, weak character is a problem that originates within the individual athlete, and therefore cannot be solved with­ out the willingness of the guilty athletes themselves.

Bad sportsmanship and greed tarnish the once glossy face of organized sports. The problems reside in athletes who have been misguided by society and by their hearts. The way they carry themselves when they are competing really says a lot about their strength of char­ acter and who they are. Regard­ less of what the printed statis­ tics may say, it takes consider­ ably more talent to play with pride and exhibit respect than it does to score the winning touch­ down.

In complying to its policy involving monthly, random searches of classrooms using metal detectors, the school system is acting within its rights and in reasonable judg­ ment. In loco parentis allows schools to have the powers over students that parents have over their children.

Since parents have the ability to search their children and their belongings at any time, and parents are absent during the school day, the school as­ sumes all of these powers and can search students with only a "reasonable suspicion."

The school system is trying to protect the lives of and pro­ vide a safe learning environ­ ment for all students. For the past two years there have been too many instances in which guns, knives, and other weap­ ons have been brought into schools in the system.

Nick Kuklinski The Eagle East Mecklenburg High Charlotte, NC Stereotyping teenagers has harsh effects

The idea that teenagers are stereotyped as rude and troubl esome i ndividuals d exac tend to act immaturely. After all, there are millions of books written for parents on how to raise a teen, how to deal with problems from your teenager, and what to expect from a teenager. It's almost as if parents are getting prepared for battle just to cope with their child.

A teenager might stroll into an expensive jewelry store simply to gaze at the treasures but unfortunately will feel the clerk watching his every move for fear he'll try to steal some­ thing.

Some teens might take ad­ vantage of the fact that they are expected to be bad, and they may use it as an excuse to rebel.

Anna Munoz The Hoofprint Myers Park High School Charlotte, NC

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Cameras change student life

Cameras are common in prisons and grocery stores, but should not be common in schools. However, by the year 2000, every middle and high school in Charlotte-Mecklen­ burg will have cameras. Char­ lotte-Mecklenburg's ill-fated attempt at innovation has cre­ ated a sense of mistrust and even heightened tensions be­ tween students and faculty. It seems the fewest numbers of student problems can lead to an entire student body being treated like criminals. Does it somehow remind you of a prison?

Harold Pride The Echo David W. Butler High School Matthews, NC

The Sabres' Blade

! Page 31

Features

February 17, 1999

Celebrating Black History A look at Black Americans who have shaped American history and literature Paul Laurence Dunbar, and Jean Toomer were all pillars fo the Harlem Renaissance and their works continue to be the voice of the African-American people. .

Blacks have also proven to be some of the most-brilliant inven­ tors, scientists, and medical pro­ fessionals. George Washington Carver studied systematic botany and developed hun­ dreds of methods for the practi­ cal industrial use of peanuts, soybeans, and sweet potatoes.

Benjamin Banneker was an as­ tronomer and mathematician.

We owe also to black scientists the traffic light, the electric pen­ cil sharpener, and the first heart transplant.

Throughout history, many African-Americans have made their contributions to society through education. Booker T. Washington committed himself to teaching blacks about trades and agriculture and eventually established the Tuskegee Insti­ tute. Mary McLeod Bethune also established the first black college for girls; Po itics has netlYeen immune from the impact of African-

By Natalie Smith Staff Reporter

February is Black History .Month, a time for all to examine and reflect on the history and contributions of black Ameri­ cans. Literature, science, enter­ tainment, education, mathemat­ ics, sports, music, sociology, and politics have all been influenced by blacks in some way. More often than not, these outstand­ ing accomplishments were made amidst unfavorable social conditions and circumstances.

Yet, these individuals perse­ vered and the result was the contribution of invaluable as­ pects of American culture. In the process, these extraordinary black Americans established themselves in greatness.

Many black writers have pro­ duced poetry and prose that are considered great American lit­ erature. Gwendolyn Brooks was the first black to win a Pulitzer Prize for her collection of poems, Annie Allen. Alex Haley's Roots opened the eyes of millions to the horrors of sla­ v ery.

Lang t o Countee Cullen, Claude McKay,

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Hughes,

Americans. Thurgood Marshall was the first black to hold a seat as a Supreme Court justice.

Shirley Chisolm was the first African-American to be a mem­ ber of the House of Representa­ tives.

The way for many of these accomplishments was paved by activists who spoke out and took action against injustice and thus, perpetuated the success of their predecessors. Besides the obvious examples of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Harriet Tubman, and Sojourner Truth, there were counteless others who acted as catalysts of social change.

Black History Month should not be a celebration by only black Americans. It should be the concern of all Americans because black history is not just the history of African-Ameri­ cans. It is American history and without the contributions of blacks, America would not be what it is today.

Langston Hughes

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Sabres' Blade

reporters Jessica Ambrose and Jemnifer Samuels also contributed teo this article.

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"The music [the blues style music] is slow, often mournful, yet syncopated, with a kind ofmarching bass behind it that seems to say, 'In spite offate, bad luck, these blues themselves, I'm going on! I'm going to get there!'"

-Langston Hughes

aMy men and my race are the insp_iration ofmy work. I try to catch the character and moodand . feeling ofmy p_eople. !he . charactertstu, melancholu muszc ofmy race has beenforgedfrom t6e very white heat of our sorrow andfrom ourg�opings."

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"Ifthere iS no �truggle there is no proKress.... Thts struggle may be a moral one, or it may be a phystcal one, and it may be both mora[and p_hysical, but it must be a struf;Kle..;. Men may not get all they payJ�r in this world, but they must certat n,'J pay for all they get.

-Frederzck Douglass

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The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

Teacher Spotlight: Herb Davis's competitive drive goes beyond the basketball court scholarships to we're almost play college sure that they'll b a s k e t b a 11 . end up using it How ever, the for the state players that tournament as have actually well," · said gone on to play The Davis. professionally equipment for in the NBA are the track team is few and far bealso being comtween. - "It's pletely refurvery rare that bished, and the you'll get a tennis courts Bobby Jones or were resurfaced a Walter Davis," last summer. he said. One of How e v er, his players did the athletic demake it to the partment is in NFL . Roman need of many Pheiffer, who other improveplays football ments that for the St.Louis Davis would R a ms, played like to be able to both football address. The and basketball bleachers in the at South. gym need to be W hen he replaced, the was promoted girls' softball to athletic direcfield is in need of tor, Davis improvement, and the tempothought that he would mi.s s rary bleachers coaching. �Howon the entrance side of the footever, he discovball stadium ered that he enneed to be rejoyed the game more when he placed with permanent seating. could just "I remember watch. "All the when we first time that I in- Da is ha been teaching at South for twenty-three years. built that footcoached , s v ball stadium we stead of just simply watching the [college or coaches can get the things that were supposed to finish the seating on what is now the away NBA] game, I was analyzing they need," he said. side and make that the home what the coach was doing and Only in his second year as looking for a play that I could athletic director, Davis has al- side," he said.

South has outgrown the show my guys," he said. "But ready accomplished several now, I can enjoy a basketball main goals for the athletic de- gym as well. Its capacity of less game." partment. With the help of the than one thousand spectators Davis describes himself as a Athletic Booster Club, Davis falls well-short of the twentycompetitive personality. "I've was able to purchase a new, five-hundred spectator capacity found that what has replaced eight thousand dollar wrestling necessary to hold state playoff that drive to compete in c.oach- mat for the wrestling team this games. "The goal is to improve ing is the drive to try to raise year. "We're going to use it for the athletic department for the enough money so that all the the conference tournament, and kids," said Davis. "I want what

By Andrew Buchert Editor

As head coach of the men's varsity basketball team for fourteen years, South Meck Athletic Director Herb Davis vividly remembers the 1992-1993 state basketball championship game, played in the Dean Smith Center at Chapel Hill. South came within one point of winning the game against South View High School and their star player, Jeff Capel. Capel went on to play basketball at Duke University.

"Jeff Capel made a basket in the last ten seconds, and they won the championship," said Davis.

Now in his twenty-third year on the faculty at South, Davis has become a familiar face around campus and at athletic events. He was coach of the men's junior varsity basketball team for seven years, the head coach of the men's varsity basketball team for fourteen years, and in 1997 he was promoted to the position of Athletic Director.

He also teaches regular and advanced U.S. History classes.

"Working with young people is more important to me than just winning basketball games," he said.

In 1965, Davis graduated from South as one of only five African-American students in his class. His younger brother, Walter Davis, also graduated from South and attended UNC Chapel Hill on a basketball scholarship. After graduating from Chapel Hill, Walter Davis was the fifth player chosen in the 1977 NBA Draft, and he was the 1977-78 Rookie of the Year.

Walter Davis ended his playing career in 1992, and currently works in public relations for the Denver Nuggets.

During his time as basketball head coach, Herb Davis had several players who received

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School system re-examines desegregation policies

DESEGREGATION

Continued .from Page

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value that diversity is critically important in today's society.

Proponents of neighborhood schools argue that the best way to learn how to coexist in a di­ verse country is to grow up in a diverse environment. They say that because housing patterns in Charlotte-Mecklenburg are not very diverse, a return to neigh­ borhood schools would consti­ tute a return to segregation.

There are also simply issues of the logistics of neighborhood schools. Neither schools in the inner city nor schools in the outer suburbs would have enough seating capacity.

One of Smith's concerns is that people are generally happy at the school to which they are currently assigned. However, this court case could result in significant changes to current pupil assignments. "I'm not in­ undated with people saying that they're terribly dissatisfied with their school," he said. t .

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Smith said that in develop­ ing any solution, the school sys­ tem must certainly keep an eye on past inequalities. However, he feels that it is very important that they don't let that be the sin­ gular focus. "It's important as a community that we take a great deal of time looking at the future rather than looking at the past," he said. "What we're do­ ing at this point in time is really building a school system for tomorrow's children."

"A bedrock value of this com­ munity is that we expect all chil­ dren to have access to quality programs, quality schools, qual­ ity teachers, and for all students to be successful academically," said Smith. "It's critical how you deal with this issue. We need people to be thoughtful, people to be wise, people who understand that there are differ­ ent points of view, both being very valid," he said.

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Sabres' Blade

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is best for them."

One thing that Davis would love to see is an increase in the attendance at athletic events. A West Charlotte or Independence football game could net fifty thousand dollars in game receipts, whereas a South football game averages about eight thousand dollars. "I don't know why it's like this in the South community, but kids do not come to athletic events," he said.

"It would be the ultimate accomplishment for me to figure out some way to get kids to come to the games."

The athletiC department has tried some tactics to attract larger crowds, such as freethrow shooting contests at bas"But you ketball games. shouldn't have to have gimmicks for kids to come," said Davis. "They should want to come because this is their school and the players need their support," he said.

Davis enjoys playing basketball in his free time several days each week. In fact, this year is the first time in five years that he is on an organized team.

When he isn't playing basketball he's reading. "I love reading U.S. history books," he said.

In the future, Davis would ike to an assis ing position with a small college basketball team "because I think I could probably be the greatest assistant anybody ever had," he said. But if that doesn't work out, then he plans to just relax "playing golf,- maybe traveling a little, and reading," said Davis.

However, Davis isn't pursuing that coaching position just yet. With a total of thirty years of teaching, he plans to stay· around a little longer. "Every year that I've taught has been enjoyable," said Davis. "The kids are fun, and they keep me young."

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The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

! Page 5 �

Technolog

Drivers' Education donates computer lab to Math Department New computers to be used by AP Computer Science and AP Calculus classes, as well as Drivers' Education students

By Andrew Buchert Editor

One of the newest additions to South Meek's Math Depart­ ment this year is the computer lab in D-Building featuring thirty 166 megahertz IBM com­ puters that were just purchased at the beginning of this school year. However, when all is said and done, the computer lab will be used not only by math classes, but also by science classes and after school by the Drivers' Education classes.

The computers are net­ worked and loaded with soft­ ware for various applications.

They have Netscape Navigator for browsing the internet, Microsoft Visual C++ program­ ming softw<;�.re for the AP Com­ puter Science classes, math pro­ grams that can be used by classes from Algebra I to AP Calculus and AP Statistics, and drivers education software that can be used once the teachers have been trained on the com­ puters. The Science Bepartment is planning t add their own

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computers) capable of doing pretty mucP, anything that we want to do with them," said Brady Hickel, Chairman of the Math Department and Director of the Computer Lab. The lab was actually do­ nated to South by the Drivers' Education Department of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System. Several years ago, the head of that department allo­ cated enough funds to install

Brady Hickel's AP Computer Science classes utilize the D-Building computer lab.

drivers' education computer labs in select high s,chools, in­ cluding South. "We have puru h eck ug principal] Dr. Knox about $12,000 worth of ad itional soft­ ware," said Hickel. "He [Knox] has been very generous in spending money to get the lab up and running," he said.

Currently, the lab is only being used by Hickel's AP Com­ puter Science classes. Students in the class learn to do actual· computer programming, al­ though they have a wide vari­ ety of individual programming

knowledge and skills. "Some of the students can write programs at a much higher level than I and most of tlie teachers in this school can program," said Hickel.

Hickel would like to see the AP Calculus classes use the lab, but he has had a difficult time trying to work out a schedule for the various classes to get into the lab. One of the problems is that his AP Computer Science classes are scheduled at the same time as the AP Calculus classes.

"Next year we'll have some­ body using the lab every pe-

riod," he said.

The Drivers' Education De­ partment ylans to eventually oegm using tne lab after school.

The students will actually go to the computer lab and use the computers to learn the written part of the class, such as the laws and rules of driving. The com­ puters will also have simulation software to teach the students driving skills. "We're not sure when the drivers' education classes will begin using the lab," said Hickel, ''but right now none of the teachers have been trained yet."

French Commander Harvey of the NJROTC is the technology director for South Meek and the new lab in D­ Building. Harvey and Hickel are in charge of the lab, making sure that everything is up and running, ensuring that any problems with the computers are properly corrected, and overseeing the general mainte­ nance and scheduling of the lab.

Previous to last summer, Hickel had not had any pro­ gramming classes since 1982.

When he learned last spring that he would be teaching AP Com­ puter Science, h� enrolled in a C++ programming class at Cen­ tral Piedmont Community Col­ lege (CPCC) over the summer.

He also attended the AP Com­ puter Science training in At­ lanta. "I've done a lot of study­ ing in the books and have worked hard to try and stay ahead of the students," said Hickel.

Hickel feels that a course in C++ programming is valuable because, among other things, man co_rrwanies re switching from other languages to C++.

AP Computer Science students can take more advanced pro­ gramming courses in college.

"Students with a background in computer programming can pretty much name their price in the job market," he said.

"Everything's becoming so computer-centered that every opportunity you get to learn more about the computer is go­ ing to make life a lot easier for you," said Hickel.

ating violence. It may not be something you've heard a lot aboutYoung people often don't tel! their friends that their boyfriend hits them or that he doesn't want them talking to anyone else, Some t�ink

that jealousy, possessiveness and even violence are signs of

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Fact One in eight high school students and one in five

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The Shelter for Battered Women's teen theatre troupe,

Heart To Heart, works with young people, educating them

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The Sabres' Blade

State Champions

AAAA

Basketball 1970

\Page 6 �

In-Depth

February 17, 1999

Go back

Teacher Mys_tery

A look into

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State Champions

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AAAA

Basketball

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1971

The decade of change State

By Natalie Smith and

Champions

Cat Trap hagan

AAAA Soccer 1971

State Champions

AAAA

Basketball 1972

State Champions

AAAA Golf 1975

State Champions

. AAAA

Staff Reporters

By Megan McKnight Centerspread Editor

This popular teacher has been teaching at South since the late 1960's. He grew up in Colum­ bia, South Carolina, and is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and Appalachian State University where he ma­ jored in psychology. He says what he remembers most about South is the parking lot in the 1960's when it was filled with ; MGB's and Austin Healy s. He also recalls the time when se­ niors got out at 10:30 every day.

This psychology and sociology teacher is famous for his stories about the ghost of South Meek and asteroid hits.

Whether it is the movie "Acid" or taking "side trips", this teacher is sure to remain in South's Hall of Fame for good. Still confused?

Please see page 5 for the answer.

State Champions

AAAA

Girls' Tennis 1978

State Champions

AAAA

Boys' Tennis 1980

State Champions

AAAA

Softball 1980

'60's

South, King and Queen of Hearts and Miss Hi Miss, to name a few. Even thirty years ago, students at South felt the stress of final exams and cel­ ebrated their completion with an Exam Jam. Students filled the stands during football games and additional support of the team was offered by the Sabrettes, South's cheerleading squad. Those who couldn't make it to the game could tune _in to South's campus radio sta­ tion.

The legacy of South Meek was just beginning to develop in the 1960's, and many of the traditions and activities estab­ lished in that decade are some of

e very

t

ings

tha

South what it is today.

Fast times at South Meek High - '80's

Basketball 1976

It was the decade that saw the assassination of a president, the peak of the Civil Rights Movement, and the emergence of a generation of rebellious youth. Another historic event in the 60's was the opening of South Mecklenburg High School under Principal Hal Edmisten.

In 1960, when Park Road was only two lanes, South opened its doors for students from sev­ . enth through twelfth grade.

The fountain in the courtyard was the only landscaping be­ sides the grass and cows that adorned the countryside sur­ rounding South.

Seniors still ruled the school, and the youngest at South still felt the hierarchy of grade lev­ els. There was hazing of lower classmen which included hang­ ing freshmen and sophomores from the flagpole by their un-

derwear. Throughout the grade levels, however, there was a run­ ning theme of cardigan sweat­ ers, winged eyeglasses and bouffant hairstyles.

Clubs and organizations were still a large part of life at South in the 60's. The Thespian Club, a dramatic group, was formed in 1964. The Teen Tones was one of South's female choir groups and its counterpart was the South Men choir group. The Good Books Club met on a regu­ lar basis to discuss literature.

There was also a Literary Soci­ ety. Sabres Out to Serve was es­ tablished in 1968, and the Key Club gave back to the commu­ nity by helpiNg with the NC Tu­ berculosis A\ssocia icm a adopting an orphan. The head­ lines in the Southern Accent, South'snewspaf>er, often told of the activities of many of these groups. , Student life at South in the 60's also featured many pag­ eants, dances and sports activi­ ties. There were Mr. and Miss

-

By Nicole Ewing and Megan McKnight Centerspread Editors

Did you know that South used to have more dances than just prom? Interact and Octa­ gon were all male clubs? Key Club actually did many service projects? And South's address was 8900 Park Road, Pineville, NC 28134? Much has changed here at South since the 1980's, but these students laid a posi­ tive foundation for the future of South.

"A student's life was not just ·classes," as stated in the 1980 yearbook. The 80's proved to be a diverse decade filled with wild fashion, fun, and politi­ cal turmoil. The hostage crisis of 1980 opened the eyes of many South students to a world beyond their own school. They supported the homecoming of the soldiers by painting the rock and showing patriotism. This is not the only way in which South students showed their spirit. Homecoming week was marked by a creative theme in

which the majority of students participated. One of the more popular events was the bonfire · . where students rallied support for their team.

If you are caught smoking or drinking at school now, the typical punishment is an automatic suspension.

However, in the '80's, smoking while on cam­ pus was not a punishable offense a n d

this world. Some of the most popular styles were high tops, cons, denim jackets, Guess jeans, CB jackets, bean shoes, and brand names. Big hair and bright makeup were the signature styles of many teen­ agers. W hat you wore was not as important as who made it. De­ signers such as Calvin K lein, Jordache, Sasson, a n d G i t-

cans were not an uncommon sight at school. The cans were not put to waste; South also be­ gan recycling programs in the 1980's.

The fashion was often out of

ano were all the rage.

Students continued to be in­ volved at South through the many clubs w e had.

Whether you wanted to be a teacher or a bus driver, there

beei

_

was a club for you. Every club appeared to participate in nu­ merous service projects. Inter­ club sporting events, such as Interact vs. Key Club basketball games helped raise money for the community. It was also in 1985 when students realized se­ niors needed a senior patio. It was not until 1987 that the gravel lot was created to give seniors parking privileges.

The 1980's marked a period of history not only for the world, but for South as well. Students experienced political turmoil and new social values that re­ defined what high school stu­ dents were. South Meek laid the foundation for many students' futures in the real world and continues to lead stu­ dents in the right direc­ tion today. We will all remember the '80's for the hair-sprayed, bubble­ gum pink, rock and roll way of life. To the teenagers who lived out their high school years in the 80's, this decade was more than the trends, it was the events that they will remember.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _..._ _ . _ _ __ _ _ ..., _..., _ _ _ _ ., _ _ _ _ _ _ ...,_ _ _ � . ... .. .. ... . ... .

------

The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

•

In

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! Page 7 �

In-Depth

•

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South ' s past

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*A trip into the disco era - '70 's* and enthusiasm behind them was at a high. Pep rallies were attended by all and Sabre pride ran rampant. Another extension

By Jennifer Samuels and Larisa Yasinovskaya Staff Reporters

solete and "microwave-look­ ing" computers were becoming more common. South also went with the flow with its own ra-

To be a teenager in the seven­ ties was exciting. Free love, drugs, and political protests characterized the era. The Viet­ nam war was on everyone's mind, and a president resigned for the first time ever. Big hair, psychedelic colors, and bell bot­ toms were prevalent in fashion.

South Mecklenburg was in its second decade of existence, and student life was at its peak.

During the seventies South was very different from what it is now. Multiple dances were held every year. The first dance that South ever had was the Barnyard Stomp in 1972, a homecoming dance featuring a band from Atlanta. Dances soon became a regular occurrence.

Some of the other activities

Teacher

Champions

AAAA

Boys' Tennis · 1981

State Champions

AAAA

Football 1981

State Champions

AAAA

Girls' Tennis 1981

State Champions

AAAA

Softball 1983

t

South that are no longer in ex­ istence included the Mono­ gram Club, an athletic service club, and the Bus Driver Club, where students got the chance to drive their peers to school.

Other exhilarating clubs in place at the time included the Hangliding and Skiing Clubs dedicated to the pursuit of those extreme sports, and even a yoga class.

The sports played at South during the seventies were simi­ lar to the 90's, but the energy

State Champions of this school spirit were sports matches played by rival clubs such as a soccer match between Interkeys and SOS, and a football game between the Sabres' Blade·and Somecka.

SOS and the Sabres' Blade were the champions of their respective matches.

Riding the wave of new tech­ nology in the seve nties, typewriters were becoming ob-

Mrs. Russo in 1989

"When I first came in 1989, it was the first year that Provi­ dence was open and South lost about a 1000 students. We were not overcrowded, there were no mobile units and only 1400 stu­ dents. Every teacher had room!

Back then, A-building hadn't been thought about; it was part of the parking lot, and Park Road was only two lanes."

" Back in the early '70's streak­ ing became very popular. One year, in 1973 or '74, a student from South went over to Myers Park High School and streaked the campus as a joke. A small group of Myers Park students decided they would retaliate by streaking across South's cam­ pus. They arrived in a small Volkswagen in the bus parking lot and got out with clothes in hand. We could see them out the window as they ran stark naked behind C-building.

One kid dropped his underwear and didn't know whether to

keep running to avoid being caught or to go back and get it.

We were shocked, but it was also very funny. Needless to say, we couldn't continue with the rest of the class."

Mr. Derr in the '60's "One of the things I remem­ ber about my early teaching years at South is the unspoken honor code followed by all of the students. You could leave anything, such as a jacket or purse, i n the room, and you could always count on it to still be there when you came back. You always knew your personal poss.essions were safe even when they were not under your watchful eye; the students could usually trust their classmates."

Mr. Machado in the '80's

"My greatest memory of South was when I used to bring my bird-dog to school. I carried my gun in my car and would take it and my dog across the street to go hunting after school."

AAAA

dio station. The students en­ joyed the disco sounds coming from the radio station, as well as from the cafeteria jukeboxes.

In the age of women's libera­ tion, South furthered the cause by having several beauty pageants. The Senior Beauties were elected by their peers. The class beauties, however, were chosen in a pageant, and in 1973 they were judged by the fa-

South's history, as seen through th-e eyes of our teachers

Mrs. Hoffman in the '70's

mous comedienne and actress Carol. Burnett. Not to worry, though, because in the age of emerging political correctness, South had a Mr. South along with a Miss South.

During Christmas Interkeys were in charge of putting u p the Christmas decorations, and to keep up the holiday spirit, the Key Club adopted an or­ phan.

The seventies left many mile­ stones; protests which set discipline standards, bell bot­ toms which we still wear, but most notably the upsurge of technology which continues to grow today.

State

Mrs. Farrar in the '80's

"The thing remembered most about me is the time when my slip fell off while I was teaching.

I was standing in front of the class and I felt something around my ankles.

I walked back behind my desk and kicked it under it and continued t eaching.

Nobody noticed until I let it slip to Mr. Wells who let it out during a faculty meeting."

Mr. Schultz in the '80's

"Several years ago, before the big wooden fence in the teach­ ers parking lot, I had an occasion to cha�e one of South's brilliant smokers off campus.

They ran over hills, through apartments, down the sidewalk, and through the Harris Teeter parking lot. The end of the ' chase came when the young man ran around Quail Comers shopping center, ran up a steep hill, stopped, sat down, put his head between his legs, and threw u p his lunch.

I smiled."

Girls ' Ten nis 1985

Champions

AAAA

Women 's Swimming ....1 :;,.:::.; 985

__

By Nicole Ewing Business Manager

Formerly Evelyn Underwood, this teacher mystery has been teaching math at South for 30 years. She first came to South in 1968 after starting her teach­ ing career in Jackson ville, Florida. She attended UNC­ Chapel Hill and is a true Tarheel Fan, never missing a home foot­ ball game. When asked about her most vivid memory while at South, she recalls the riots after South was first integrated.

Through all of this chaos, she continued with her lessons, which proves her dedication to educating students.

Besides teaching Pre-Calculus and Calculus AP, she is also ad­ visor of ICC, and often has to be at several meetings at the same time. Her tests may be the most feared exams at this school, but if a student gets bored with vari­ ables and numbers, they can al­ ways stare at her entertaining screen savers. Got a clue? Find the answer on page 5.

State Champions

AAAA

Football 1986

State Champions

AAAA

Baseball 1989

State Champions

AAAA Men' s

Swimming 1989

�----

The Sabres' Blade

! Page S �

Arts & E nterta i n ment

February 17, 1999

Follow the Yellow Brick Road . . .

The Arts i n Charlotte

This n1onth it leads to South's auditoriurll B y Jennifer Samuels Staff Reporter

Chorus Director Marc Setzer conducted during the perfor­ mance. Mr. Setzer was also re­

ary 1 1 - 1 3 . The p r o d uction marks the first time a mainstage musical has been at South since 1996's highly successful perfor­ mance of Oklahoma! .

For those who may not know the story of The Wizard of Qz, the main character, Dorothy, is blown in a tornado from her native Kansas to the magical Land of Oz. Dorothy is told to travel to the Emerald City to et assistance in going home from the great Wizard. On her way she meets Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. The story

ing parts to the chorus and leads.

'Jenni Williams, a junior, was the stage manager. Jenni' s prin­ cipal job was to be in charge of the cast and crew backstage. She also served as line prompter and principal " screamer", or cast disciplinarian. Assistant stage manager w a s Kara N o r t o n .

Chris Gordon, Adam Shields, and Jackie Dautel were the tech­ nical directors of the show, in charge of everything from build­

the whole family.

Although not quite a cast of thousands, South's version of The Wizard of Oz utilized many cast and crew members. The director was Deb Curl, South's veteran d r a m a teacher.

A unique feature of the production was a pit orchestra instead of taped music. Coordinating live musicians with live actors was a challenge well met by the tal­

the set. Senic artists were Katie Rankin and A r i e l U rena.

Charlene Yang served as props mistress for the show.

Visual Arts departments Febru­

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starred in the lead role of Dor-

othy. Also in the cast as princip a l c h a r a c t e r s w ere Nicole M e a d e, Sean Sears, Sarah Snyd e r, Adam Shields, and Laura N oethiger. However, these were not the only people

inv olved with the on-stage work. A chorus consisting of about twenty South students

provided background singing and characters, including the

Munchkins and Ozians (people from O z ) .

The ten "mini" Munchkins were elementary­ age friends and family members of the cast and crew.

The orchestra was made up of some of the best students in­ volved in South Meek's bands

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"I've been here seven days a week, including many sixteen hour days, but seeing the excite­ ment on the faces of the "mini­ munchkins", ob serving the amazing creativity of the de­ signers and listening to the in­ credible orchestra has made it wor thw hile," sai s. Curl, suming up the experience of working on a musical.

T H U R S . 1 0 AM-5 P H O N E : 547-4479

Ewok" confirms that "this i s a characteristic of all of us, al­

Second N a t u re is an ex­

tremely successful band consist­ ing entirely of talented South Meek musicians. It began as simply a side project for drum­ mer Kevin Markie and guitar­ ist Joe Benham in January of

1998; however, following vari. ous line-ups ov�r a span of eight vocalist months, Chris

H athcock and b a s s i s t Z ac h Newhouse joined t o create what is now the "juggernaut" of Sec­ ond Nature.

The band promotes a drug­ free lifestyle due to the fact that three of its members, Chris, Kev in, and Joe, are straight edge.

H o w e v e r, J o e " Th e

though it is not what the band itself is about."

The band represents various elements from several types of metal, hard core, and emo mu­ sic, and is known for its ex­

y

tremely heav , melodic music and emotional, aggressive lyr­ ics. In short, Second Nature dis­ plays a unique style of their own. Each of the band's mem­ bers draw their individual style from pers onal role m o d e l s .

Their lyrics are strongly influ­ enced by singer / poet Henry Rollins and the metal band Neu­ rosis. Musically, their role mod­ els include Zao and Strongarm.

Second Nature is in the pro­ cess of recording their first full-

length CD, which is entitled "The Missing Essence." If you are interested in owning a copy, you may talk to the band at one of their shows or e-mail them at xsecondnaturex@hotmail.com.

Second Nature already has nu­ merous performances under their belt, including an appear­ ance at Tremont Music Hall with

the X-Periment and Learning and house shows with the likes of H opesfa ll, Learning and Prayer for Cleansing.

In regards to a record deal, the musicians feel that due to their original sound and grow­ ir).g popularity, such an oppor­ tunity is well in their reach. For

now, they are concentrating on polishing their first CD and-ben­ efiting from the positive impact

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Second Nature plays for the love of music, displaying a style all their own.

B y Laura King Staff Artist

A

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lighting. Chris and Adam were also responsible for designing

Bethany Sterling and Becca W illiamson star in lead roles of Dorothy and Glenda.

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and orchestras. Band Director David Ragsdale was in charge of rehearsing the orchestra, and

The musical The Wizard of Oz was presented by the South Mecklenburg Performing and

ented students who made up

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Second Nature has had on all of their lives. Vocalist Chris "The Beast" Hathcock speaks particu­ larly highly of the influence Sec­ ond Nature has had on his life.

"Second Nature is the best thing that has ever happened to me.

Here is a group of talented indi­ viduals who listen to what I say about a song and allow me to have t o t a l lyrical freed o m .

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These guys have helped m e so· much with turmoil going on in my life." In regards to the im­ pact Second Nature has had on his life, bassist Zach "The En­ ergy Bomb" simply exclaims, "Yyyyyeeeessss ! ! ! "

Visit Second Nature's website at h t t p . // m e m b e r s . a o l . c o m / str8edge76/page/index.htm.

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The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

! Page 91

Features

Faces in the Crowd Rebecca Wi l l i amson : A talented actress s i ng i ng her way to success

has to wake up at four o'clock in the morning and prepare breakfast for twenty homeless

B y Cat Trap hagan Staff Reporter It is hard to describe Becca Williamson in just a few words.

Not only is she a talented vocal­ ist, she also is an excellent stu­ dent and actress. Becca does not j u s t s t r i v e for s u c c e s s ; she achieves it.

At one time, Becca played the flute and piano. However, she gave them up in order to devote all of her time to her best instru­ ment, her voice. Becca is in­ volved in The Chamber Singers and the Wom e n ' s Chamber Choir. "When I am performing, I get to go out of myself and be

a different person. I get a natu­ ral high every time I go on stage," she said. Her voice and talent as an actress landed her the role of Glenda in the recent production of The Wizard of Oz. At Carmel P resbyterian Church, Becca volunteers for the Breakfast of the Angels. She

men. That's not the hard part, though; she still has to be at school before the bell rin g s !

Becca is headed t o Jamaica o n a missionary trip with her church.

While there, she will repair houses and "mix a lot of ce­ ment!"

Becca summed up her goal for this school year in one state­ ment: "I want to get through all my AP classes and still be sane."

A proud s u r v i v o r of many higher level courses, she is in­

Name: Becca Wi l liamson In CD Player: U nder the Table and Dreaming Food : " I j ust love food!"

Color: B l ue

volved in US History AP, En­ glish AP, Chemistry AG and French III. Three years at South have given Becca insight on herself and her life. "When I finally re­

aliz�d that one test grade wasn't going to determine my future, I started to relax. At least one re­ spectable college will take me no matter what�" she said.

Sam o ne· Wi l l iams : An i nvolved student who n ows o tiave spirations are tap dancer Savion Glover and her ballet teacher, Linda Muir.

Samone also gives credit for her success as an involved and talented student to her parents.

"They have been big inspira­ tions for me, " she s a y s .

Samone's mother i s a social worker and her commitment to being involved w i th o th e r people has deeply impacted

By Natalie Smith Staff Reporter Samone Williams is known by many as a �alkative, fun-lov­

ing junior frequently seen about campus. She is also, however, one of the most talented, cul­ tured, and involved students at South.

Samone is committed to numerous clubs and organiza­ tions at South, including SWV,

Samone.

In the future, this gifted Sa­ bre hopes to attend Spelman

NAACP, National Honor Soci­ ety, Lettergirls, African Dance, Winter Guard, Wind Ensemble, Women's Chamber, and Junior Class Council. She also plays the flute for her church.

Amazingly, between j u g­ gling extracurricular activities and academics, Samone has enough time to devote to her passion-dance. Samone has been taking jazz, ballet, and tap dancing lessons for the past fourteen years and is an out­ standing dancer. Among her in-

College or UNC-Chapel Hill, and would like to pursue a ca­

reer as a lawyer or judge.

When asked how she would describe herself, Sam one says "I

Name: Samone Wil l iams F lower: Wh ite rose · Secret wis h : A motorcycle Pet peeve : Drivers who tu rn too slowly

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can be really crazy sometimes, but basically I'm just an average person who likes to have a good time and make new friends. For me, it's all about having fun and meeting new people. Hopefully by being myself, I'll help other people to have fun too."

Student publica­ tions are an integral part of high school life.

Support your publications by subscribing to The Sabres' Blade.

What would be the effects of a female president on the nation ?

"A female president would bring more voters to the polls and put more trust back into the govern­ ment."

Erik Sweeney, 12th "I do not believe that it would have any effect on our nation at all. " Antonio Sowell, 9th

"A female president would bring respect back to the office. It would have a positive effect and is a good idea."

Lindsay Duckworth, lOth "I think a female presi­ dent would have more issues to talk about that concern women at work or at home. " Amanda Porter, 11th "I think that nothing would change except the country's popularity. A female president would get the attention of other nations."

Tyl er Auten, 9th "The sex of the president would not make that much of a difference; it is the personality that counts."

Tory G e iger, 12th " I think that a woman would bring respect back to the office and have a different opinion on certain issues."

Jessica Earnhardt, 9th "I think that females would be respected more than we are now. " Antwanette Moore, lOth "Having a female presi­ dent would do wonders for this nation. Females sometimes seem to have more common sense than men do."

Sakiah Haines, 11th "It would bring some­ thing new to our govern­ ment. A female president would probably approach p roblems in a differnt manner."

Lisa Howell, 9th "I think a woman would be a wonderful leader because she could prob­ ably deal more pratically with social matters."

Erika Rubio, 11th

The Sabres' Blade

JPage 101

S ports

February 17, 1999

Zelk receives Coach of the Year award

The hardest working man 1n basketball

New coach wins first championship at South

•

By Chris O'Connor Staff Reporter South Meek cross country coach Brian Zelk was selected by the Charlotte Observer as the cross country Coach of the Year for Mecklenburg County. Zelk, in his first year at South, is also the head coach of both indoor and outdoor track.

If you have watched a col­

lege basketball game in the past ten years, you know who Dick

Vitale is. He has announced al­ most every major game for the past ten years including the an­

nual Duke-Carolina matchup and Syracuse-UConn game. He is well known for his enthusi­ asm and love for college basket­ ball and respect for the players in it.

However, he is the man that fans love to hate. They make light of his natural enthusiasm for the game and make fun of his appearance and broadcast­ ing style. I, on the other hand

This fall Zelk led the cross country team to their first con­ ference championship in over twenty years. He gives the team a lot of the credit for his receiv­ ing the award. "These guys win­

plague. They don't see the man who has more than five stress related hernias due to low self­ esteem. They don't see the man who had his left eye replaced with a glass one. A few years ago, Sports Illustrated p ub­ lished an article that portrayed

track coach at Sedgefield Middle School in Charlotte, he led his team to a perfect record of 1 7-0 and the league championship.

He is still competing in races and finished the Observer Marathon

Vitale as the kind-hearted man

last year.

Zelk has reformed much of South's runnin g progr� in the

that he is. A man who sponsors countless charity events for young children and still goes home thinking that nobody

likes him. However, in a recent edition, the magazine made light of his style by remarking

·

that the only way that the NBA was better than the NCAA was that they d i d n ' t h a v e D i c k Vitale. They even had a special section that made fun of his vo­ cabulary and use of superla­ tives. Although made in jest, comments like these are what has led him to feelings of self­ doubt. They do not take into account the work he does to cre­ ate that style.

Just think of his commentar­ ies. The way he describes ev­ ery intricate detail of a player's talent and ability, taking notice of everything from his ball-han­ dling to his locker room role.

The way he creates A ll-Star

teams for the best defenders, or freshmen, or sixth men in col­ lege basketball. Also, think of

anticipation but also with a little uncertainty. With only two re­ turning seniors, Coach Gaston did not know how his team would tum out. However, he is pleasantly surprised by his team which is currently at the num­

ber three spot in the conference.

With a record of 1 7-5 the team has gone far past anybody's ex­ pectations, including the coach.

The team is led by Heather Sakaduski who is a returning All-Conference player. As a team leader, Heather runs the c o u r t . In the H omecoming

He probably travels more than any other broadcaster in the

nation.

Dick Vitale is arguably the hardest working man in college basketball. Even though you may not like his style on televi­ sion, don't take it out on him He is a good man and he is good

about it, baby," he is going to be

around for a long time.

@ Forest Hills

FOREST HILLS

M ar. 1 6

@ Providence

M ar. 1 7

NORTH MECK

M ar. 1 9

INDEPENDENCE

Mar.23

@ East Meek

Mar.25

OLYMPIC

Mar.26

BUTLER

Mar.30

MYERS PARK

Mar. 3 1

N . DAVIDSON

Apr. 1

GARINGER Spring Break

Apr. 1 3

@ W. Charlotte

Apr. 1 4

@ Garinger

Apr. 1 6

PROVIDENCE @ Independence

Apr. 2 1

W. C HARLOTIE

Apr. 23

EAST MECK

Apr. 27

@ Butler

Tournament

Softball

Pho ograpner

Coach Zelk takes a moment to reflect on his team's progress during a recent track practice. past few months in an effort to establish a winning tradition. So far, he has been successful in ac-

quiring new uniforms and equipment for the team, and he is now trying to get South into some of the bigger and more prestigious meets. He is also b ringing in a new assis tant coach for track and organizing a summer running camp.

Coach Zelk's ultimate goal

for South is to win the North Carolina State Championship in b oth track and cross country.

"One of my main goals was to coach at the high school level and build a solid cross country and track program," he said.

Some day he would like to coach at the collegiate level and possi­ bly be a math professor, but he plans on staying at South for some time.

to an open te ammate or creating a fast break, Sakaduski willed the team to victory in the last ten seconds of the game. Another outstanding player for the Lady Sabres is Teresa Harding who was All-Conference and All­ County for the past two years.

Even with several outstand­ ing players, the team is still

young and somewhat inexperi­ enced. Coach Gaston is confi­ dent that the team can s till achieve a lot this season, even if they only gain experience. "We have a young team, just because we have two seniors, so we do not have a lot of floor experi­ ence, but as we keep playing,

that problem will solve itself," Gaston said.

The team's goals this year

are to do well in the conference and state playoffs, but also to gain experience and prepare for next year. Coach Gaston has prepared for this by running a deep roster to allow many play­

ers playing time and court ex­ perience.

The greatest move to ensure

future success was the enlist­

ment of three assistant coaches.

These coaches add many new techniques to practice to teach the p layers more about the game. Coach Gaston has lab led them as a definite strong point for their team and something that will lead to more victories down the road.

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Olympic NORTH MECK @ Providence INDEPENDENCE

Mar. 23

@ East Meek

M ar. 25

BUTLER

Mar.29

MYERS PARK

Mar. 3 1

GARINGER

Apr. l 3

@ W. Charlotte

Apr. 1 4

@ Garinger

Apr. 1 6

PROVIDENCE

Apr. 1 9

@ Independence

Apr. 2 1

W. CHARLOTIE

Apr. 23 Apr. 26 Apr. 29

EAST MECK @ Butler @ Myers Park

Boys' Tennis Mar.9

NORTH MECK

Mar. 1 8

CONCORD

Mar. 23

@ Garinger

Mar. 25

W. CHARLOTIE

M ar. 30

@ Providence

Apr. 1 3

INDEPENDENCE

Apr. 1 5

@ East Meek

Apr. 20

BUTLER

Apr. 22

MYERS PARK

Apr. 26

Conference Tournament

May 4 May 1 4

Dual Team Individual State

M ay 1 5 , 2 1 State Playoffs May 2 2 , 23 State Championship

Girls' Soccer Mar.6

Capital Jamboree

Mar.8

@ Olympic

Mar. l O

HIGH POINT

M ar. 1 2

@ H arding

M ar. 1 5

@ West Meek

Mar. l 8

C . CATHOLIC

M ar. 1 9

VANCE

Mar. 23

@ Garinger

Mar.25

W. CHARLOTIE

Mar.30 Apr. 1

@ Providence INDEPENDENCE

Apr. 1 3

@ East Meek

Apr. 1 5

BUTLER

Apr. 20

MYERS PARK

Apr. 22

GARINGER

Apr. 23

@ North Meek

Apr. 27

@ W. Charlotte

Apr.29

PROVIDENCE

May 4 May 6 May 1 1

@ Independence EAST MECK @ Butler

May 1 3

@ Myers Park

Mar.8

GARINGER

M ar. 1 5

W. CHARLOTIE

M ar. 22

.

at what he does. Even if you don't like him, you had better get over it because, "No doubt

M ar. l 1

@ Myers Park M ay 3-7 Conference

his appearances on television.

He covers games from the PAC-

10 to the ACC to the Big East.

EAST GASTON

Apr.29

game against Providence, she seemed to be everywhere .

Whether she was making a pass

Lady Sabre basketball en­ tered the 1999 season with much

@ C. Cabarrus

Mar.8 M ar. l O

Apr. 20

Lady Sabres are young but impressive

By J.T. Crook Sports Co-Editor

@ Olympic

Mar.4

Tournament

complish anything, and that

through hard work, good things will come," he said.

Zelk ran track and cross country in both high school and college, and was previously an assis tant coach at M cKinley High School in Ohio. As head

Varsity Baseball Mar.2

Apr. 6-8

ning the conference is a reflec­ tion on me and winning this award is a reflection on them," he said. "It goes to show that if we all work together, we can ac­

like Dick Vitale and would like to ask every college basketball fan to kindly get off his back.

Fans see the bald head, the weathered face and attack him verbally as if he c a rries the

Spring Sports Schedule

Mar.29

Golf

@ Providence INDEPENDENCE

Apr. 1 2

@ East Meek

Apr. 1 9

BUTLER

Apr. 26

@ Myers Park Regionals

M ay 3

� .:--· · -:- - - ---

----

The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

. �------....,...- �---�

S po rts

Men ' s basketball finds stride as state playoffs near

Sabres in third place in Southwestern

4A

conference

By Nathan Morabito

S o u th

Sports Co-Editor The South M ec klenb u rg

men's basketball team has con­ tinued, as predicted, to have a successful season. The Sabres, who are 1 3-i' overall, and 8-4 in the conference, have played to­ gether as a team and have be­ come one of the better teams in the Southwestern 4A confer­ ence. South Meek is currently in third place in the conference, behind number one West Char­ lotte and the second place East Meek Eagles.

Recently, the b as ketball ' team gained a victory at South's H o m e c o m in g by defeating Providence in a tough game, by a score of 55-50. After trailing at half-time, the Sabres were able to work together and win the game, finishing with four players scoring in double fig­ ures. These team members were Andy Gunn with 1 5 p oints, Montrice Stitt with 1 2 points, and both Hector Valenzuela and

team captain Lorenzo Southern scoring 10 points each.

will succeed, s aying, " O u r number one goal this season was to make the State playoffs.

Now t h a t we have . achieved

that goal, each game will be played with >hnfnur,anhPr W inning aS OUr number one priTravis Feaster shoots over a Providence player at Homecoming. ority. It is very South w a s also able t o score of 53-50. Against the realistic that we may contend bounce back from a loss to In­ Eagles, South once again put for a sectional championship. " dependence, to beat a strong four players in double figures, The Sabres will play their first East Mecklenburg by a score of including Quavis Morgan with playoff game at home, ceded 69-59. Earlier in the week, the 1 6 points, and Montrice Stitt, number three in the tourna­ S abres l o s t a d i s a p p ointing A n d y G u nn, and Lorenzo ment, and will need as much game to Independence b y a Southern with 11 points. support as possible.

Sabres plan to dominate at state meet

By Nicole Ewing Business Manager

team competed in the confer­

The South Meek men's and women s ea: proved to be a dominant f orce against their competition after 24 swim­ mers and divers qualified for the regional swim meet. Qualifying for regionals requires a swim­ mer to reach a set time standard.

From there, the top finishers in each event will go onto the state swim meet on February 19-20 in

Chapel Hill. The Sabres are looking to send a strong team to states to represent South.

On Thursday, February 4, the

ence meet at the Mecklenburg Aquatic Club. The majority of the men's team swam ers nal best times and finished in an impressive third place behind Myers Park and Providence.

The ladies placed fourth, just two points behind Butler, but plans to come out on top in regionals.

Senior Cap tain Melanie Pfeifer has swum for four years and has had a very successful final season. "I am very proud of the team as a whole, and I'm impressed with

how the team has come together over the past season," she said.

The Sabre diving team also did very well at their conferenc e meet. Individually, the top finishers were Brett Emmerton and ,. _ Whitney Rothrock, both placing third. With the help from the points earned from the divers South hopes to finish in the top five at states.

"We might have a small team but each person contributes t0 the total score and other teams

The indoor t r a c k t e a m

ended their season at the state meet in Greensboro last Satur­ day. The Sabres qualified their 4x400m team with Chris Gor­ don, Reggie Robinson, Dameko

Thorpe, and Derrik Smit and ran well at the state meet. Chris Gor­ don ran the 300m and was the only Sabre to qualify in an indi­ vidual event. The 4x800m team also made it to the state tourna­ ment level.

The L a d y Sabres had a strong season as well and fin­ ished strong in the state ·meet.

Associated Press Top 25 Poll 1.

2.

'3 .

I

I

cannot say that," said Coach Dave. The upcoming regiona l and state meet will allow the strongest teams to prove their strength, and the Sabres expect to be one of those top teams.

Indoor track makes a run at states

By Chris O'Connor Staff Reporter

Meek

will finish out their season by playing Butler and M y e rs Park.

Next comes the p o s t s e a s on, w h e re Coach Clark is confi­ dent the team

Kate Meier led the women by qualifying in both the 1 600m and the 3200m. Adrian Barnette turned in the best performance for the Sabres as she jumped 5'4 to take third place in the high jump. The track team is now preparing for the outdoor season which will begin with a home meet on March 1 1 .

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19.

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Duke UConn Auburn Cincinnati Michigan St. Stanford Maryland Kentucky U C LA Arizona St. John's UNC Ohio St. Utah Wisconsin Miami Indiana Syracuse Iowa Charleston Purdue Minnesota Florida Kansas New Mexico

23- 1 20- 1 22- 1 2 1 -2 20-4 1 9-4 20-4 1 9-6 1 7- 5 1 6-4 1 8-6 1 9-6 1 7-6 1 8-4 1 9- 5 1 5- 5 1 8- 7 1 6- 7 1 5-6 2 1 -2 1 6- 7 1 4-6 1 6- 5 1 6- 6 1 7-6

!P age 111 Atlanta Falcons , a product of hype

The Denver Broncos win their second consecutive Super

Bowl! This line may have been a surprise to many football faps, since Denver was the favorite to win, but everybody and their

mother picked the Atlanta Fal­ cons. During the 1 999 playoffs, Atlanta should have been given the title of most overrated team.

Sure, the Falcons only lost

two games all year, but it must be taken into consideration that Atlanta played in the weakest conference in the National Foot­

ball League. First, let's begin with the Saint Louis Rams and the New Orleans Saints, two t e a m s t h a t are consistently weak. Now comes our very own Carolina Panthers, who only managed to win four games this season, and for the second year in a row .the Pan­ thers finished the season with a losing record. The San Francisco 49ers had their first lack-luster season in quite a few years, los­ ing many key players due to in­ juries, which only helped the conference look worse.

One subplot created during the playoffs was the crowning

�than M.9f!!litQ �� Sports Commentary of the Falcons as the " good guys." This may have been due to a s y m p a thy fac tor, since Coach Dan Reeves underwent bypass heart surgery. Although

some of the credit for the game

should go to the coach, the play­ ers wanted to win the Super Bowl for their own glory.

Although the Atlanta Fal­ cons were able to make it to the Super Bowl, the minute the

game ended, they were forgot­ ten. Numerous victories have been the result of pure luck; for example, when they beat a Min­ nesota team who took the game for g r a n t e d .

The Vikings thought they would trample Atlanta and did not play up to their full potential.

Atlanta has lost and disap­ pointed their fans by a weak performance in the Super Bowl.

This has only injured the entire National Football League. Per­ haps a better teain will earn the right to represent the National Conference in next year's big game.

AUTHORITY Prepare Yourse lf For Spring Sports Pineville

(704) 553-0096

"Heaven On A Rof Hannaford Plaza Shopping Center Fax 543-9846

Come out and sup­ port all Sabre teams as they com-. pete in their respec­ tive tournaments.

A message from the Booster Club. .

'

....

!P a g e 1 2 �

The Sabres' Blade

February 17, 1999

Senior Mysteries

Students broaden horizons through Internship Progra111

By Nicole Ewing Business Manager

By Nicole Ewing Business Manager

By Laura King Staff Reporter

This senior mystery does not follow the crowd. His creative left-wing politics tend to start many interesting class discus­ sions. Being a well-spoken in­ dividual helps him excel on South's Mock Trial and High-Q teams. He is at the top of the Senior Class academically and is in BETA Club, National and Spanish Honor Societies, and Band. This senior is also well known for his popular hard­ core/punk band "Learning." If you still don't have a clue who he is, this senior mystery plans to attend UNC-Chapel Hill next year. Got any guesses? If not, check out Page 5.

This bright-eyed, smiling se­ nior is hard to miss on campus.

She stands a little less than five feet tall with an abundance of long, curly dark hair. As a midfielder on the varsity soccer team, she takes advantage of her small size to dart around de­ fenders for South. A transfer from Providence last year, this senior mystery had an all-con­ ference performance for the Sa­ bres. In the fall this senior plays select soccer for The Charlotte Soccer Club's blue team with fel­ low Sabres Hadley Trotter and Heather Sakaduski. If you still don't know who she is, tum to Page 5.

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W hat do you want to be when you grow up? If you are like most students, you prob­ ably have not had a chance to decide your future. That is what South's Academic Internship Program is for. It gives students hands-on experience in their own areas of academic interest by providing internship training at many Charlotte-Mecklenburg businesses.

Char lotte-Mecklenburg schools began the academic in­ ternship program in 1 975 at West Charlotte High School.

Due to the great success of the program, CMS later expanded it to all of the high schools, includ­ ing South in 1978. Since then, hundreds of students have ex­ plored careers that they wish to pursue.

Internships are available for careers in medicine, radio/TV, journalism, architecture, engi­ neering, and child development.

No matter what a student's in­ terest is, there is an internship provided for it. Over 450 busi­ ness agencies and government offices participate. This includes every hospital, W BTV, WTVI, and The Charlotte Observer.

The community is very support­ ive and appreciative of the help they get from the interns. Linda Stevens, e interns 1p coor nator, has received numerous calls from the businesses

complimenting the interns on the excellent work they did.

A very unique aspect about the Academic Internship Pro­ gram is· its Science-Research program. It is partnered with the area colleges and hospitals, and allows students to learn about specific areas of medicine by researching at a location of their interest. Senior Sarah Smith was very pleased with her experience at an area nursing home where she studied the re­ ports. "I was grateful to have the opportunity to compile a re­ port from patients labs which is something that most people do not get to do until college," she said.

Not only can a student in­ tern individually, but there are also group internships available for those research areas that are of the large interest. The group interns at a different location within their field of study each week, which gives them a broader picture of the career.

Individually, interns meet at their intern site twice a week af­ ter school until they reach their specified number of hours which varies from 45 hours to 180 hours.

If a student is unable to find time throughout the school year for an internship, the program continues into the summer months. This gives students more exi: ii in sche ing their hours.

Students can enroll in the

program year-round, and the only requirement is that they must have completed second semester of their sophomore year and must provide their own transportation. For the more popular internships that quickly run out oh>pots, seniors receive priority. Applications can be obtained from the intern­ ship coordinator, Linda Stevens, in student services during lunch on Tuesdays.

Interns are not paid for their work, however, they do receive academic credit that is part of their high school transcript but does not affect their GPA. The amount of credit depends upon the number of hours that the in­ tern completed, and the grade they received. Interns a r e graded based o n an evaluation from the community sponsor, a journal which the student must record their experiences in, and an optional product. If a student drops their internship, they au­ tomatically receive an F. It is very apparent that South's Academic Internship Program has been a great suc­ cess. Internships give students a more realistic view of their ca­ reer area, and helps them make decisions about their future.

Mrs. Stevens is very pleased with how the program has turned out at South. "I have found students who participate in erare excep · ested an i.Ld e great job," she said.

n

Outward Bound: M r just an adventure

You're covered in dirt. Your muscles scream for mercy. You share your bed with sticks and rocks. And you never felt better.

Welcome to North Carolina Outward Bound School , where the path of most resistance is the only one to take.

U nique Course Design

S K I LL B U I L D I N G - Learn more about yourself, your team and the outdoors. De­ velop skills in a variety of dif­ ferent areas, including outdoor activities, wilderness safety, communication and team­ work.

E X P E D I T I O N - Apply new skills. As students begin to master skills, instructors gradually step back, and award the crew increased re­ sponsibilities.

E N V I R O N M E N TA L AWA R E N E S S Respect

Mother Nature. We are all per­ sonally responsible for main­ taining the health of the natu­ ral environment.

SOLO- Take time out of a busy world just to be. Solo is not a survival exercise, but rather an opportunity for students to re­ flect on their experiences, relax, and recharge.

SERVICE- Extend teamwork and compassion to the larger

community. Every Outward Bound course incorporates at least one day of service work.

Projects include rebuilding reails, painting houses for local elderly residents, planting trees, teaching handicapped children to camp, serving in a soup kitchen and taking underprivi­ leged teens rock climbing.

PERSONAL CHALLENGE- A challenge to yourself, not a com­ petition with others. An Out­ ward Bound course culminates in � personal challenge event-a run, paddle, or bike ride of suf­ ficient length for a student to test his or her newly developed endurance and fitness.

"At Outward Bound I was given a backpack, a sleeping bag, a tarp, some dehydrated food, and little else, and asked to survive in the woods. It was the most independent and exhilirating experience of my life."

-Rachel Hockfield, Grade 12

" I learned to appreciate the outdoors, work in a team, and rely on myself in a difficult situation. Some things we did I enjoyed and some weren't that great, but in the end I came out a lot better person and I would definitely recommend Outward Bound to anybody who asked."

-James Wooten, Grade 11

" Outward Bound doesn't just teach you to do something; it forces you to. You are re­ quired to work with others, and if you don't know how, you will learn very quickly.

You leave knowing the people from your group better than your brother or your best friend."

-Will Brown, Grade 11